Private Tour The hills are alive: a tour to locations of the Sound of music film

Immerse Yourself in the Sound of Music with a Private Salzburg Tour

This private tour in Salzburg offers a personalized journey through the filming locations of the beloved 1965 musical film, The Sound of Music. For $1,034.85 per group, up to 6 guests can explore the city and surrounding regions in about 8 hours, with the option of including a hearty mountain lunch. A driver-guide whisks visitors from their hotel or preferred pickup point, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience with air-conditioned transport and bottled water provided throughout.

What really sets this tour apart is its focus on major filming sites and scenic spots, with special stops at palaces, churches, and iconic outdoor locations. The private nature of the tour means it is tailored to your group’s interests and pace, making it an ideal choice for families, fans of the film, or those seeking a flexible, immersive experience of Salzburg and its beautiful surroundings.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to 6 guests
• 8-hour guided tour visiting Salzburg film locations and scenic regions
• Includes visit to Nonnberg Abbey, Leopoldskron Palace, and Hellbrunn Palace
• Optional lunch upgrade available at mountain restaurants
• Stops at scenic lakes such as Wolfgangsee and Salzkammergut region
• Pickup and drop-off in Salzburg city, with admission tickets included for key sites

Starting at Salzburg: Convenient Pickup and Drop-off

The tour begins at 9:00am in Salzburg, with free pickup from any hotel, train station, or airport within the city. The driver-guide then takes guests on a scenic drive through Salzburg’s old town, offering a first glimpse of the city’s major sights. This seamless start ensures no time is wasted, and the group can relax knowing transportation is organized and comfortable.

At the end of the day, the tour concludes back at the chosen location in Salzburg, allowing for easy continuation of your day or transportation to other sightseeing plans. The private nature guarantees an intimate experience, free from large group constraints.

Visiting Nonnberg Abbey: The Movie’s Starting Point

One of the first stops is Stift Nonnberg, where Maria becomes a nun in the film. This historic abbey is not only significant on screen but also in real life, as Maria actually stayed there. Visitors are shown the abbey’s architecture and history during the 45-minute visit, with admission tickets included. It’s a chance to step into the backdrop of the opening scenes and learn about the convent’s religious and cultural importance.

The site offers inspiring views and a quiet atmosphere, perfect for appreciating the film’s beginning. The guide shares fun facts about the film’s depiction of Maria’s early life and the real history of the abbey.

Leopoldskron Palace and Its Scenic Lake Setting

Next, the tour drives past Leopoldskroner Weiher, a picturesque lake and palace that served as the backdrop of the Von Trapp family’s home in the movie. The 20-minute stop allows guests to admire the baroque architecture and take photos of the reflective waters. The admission is free, making this a highlight for fans of the film’s visual scenes.

The Leopoldskron Palace stands out as a major filming location, with its lush surroundings and distinctive façade. It’s an ideal spot to capture classic Salzburg scenery and recall iconic moments from The Sound of Music.

Hellbrunn Palace: The Gazebo and Park

The tour then takes visitors to Schloss Hellbrunn, where the famous outdoor gazebo is located. This 30-minute stop includes a look at the gazebo’s picturesque setting and the surrounding park. The admission is free, and it’s one of the most recognizable sites from the film.

While the interior of the gazebo is not always accessible or open, the outdoor location remains a favorite for photos and film enthusiasts. The guide explains the story behind the gazebo’s role in the movie and its current use in Salzburg tourism.

The Sound of Music Trail and Do-Re-Mi Scene

One of the most memorable stops is at the Sound of Music trail, where the children sing the Do-Re-Mi song. The 40-minute visit offers the chance to walk along the trail and see the original filming location. Alternatively, when accessible, guests can see the famous outdoor meadow where Julie Andrews performed the opening scene.

This site provides a hands-on connection to the film’s musical moments and offers great photo opportunities. The guide shares background stories about the scene and its significance in film history.

Scenic Drive Through the Salzkammergut Region

The tour extends beyond Salzburg with a drive through the Salzkammergut lake region, passing St. Gilgen and the Wolfgangsee. A 10-minute stop here gives guests a glimpse of the quaint village and the lake’s scenic beauty. Although brief, this stop emphasizes the region’s natural charm and its connection to the film.

The passage through this area highlights Austria’s stunning landscapes and provides perfect opportunities for picturesque views.

The Wedding Scene at Basilika St. Michael

Another key highlight is visiting Basilika St. Michael, where Maria and Captain Von Trapp are married in the film. The 30-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate the Baroque architecture and religious significance of the basilica, which is an essential part of the movie’s story.

Guests get a sense of the historical setting of the wedding scene, with some explanation of the basilica’s architectural features. It’s a meaningful addition for those interested in the film’s plot.

Optional Mountain Lunch with Upgraded Booking

Clients can upgrade their tour online to include a mountain restaurant lunch, offering a hearty meal amid the scenic landscape. This optional addition provides a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine, making the tour a more full-day experience.

The lunch option is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a taste of regional flavors, without the need to find dining on their own.

Practical Details and How to Book

The tour is priced at $1,034.85 per group, accommodating up to 6 people, making it an attractive option for families or small groups seeking a private experience. The tour is booked on average 63 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity.

It includes fuel surcharge, driver-guide, bottled water, and admission tickets for key sites. The most travelers find the timing and pacing well-balanced, with comfortable shoes recommended for walking stops.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others?

This private Sound of Music tour stands out for its personalized approach and focus on film locations in Salzburg and beyond. The inclusion of scenic drives, stop at iconic sites, and optional lunch makes it a flexible, well-rounded experience.

Reviews praise knowledgeable guides like Bernie, Gary, Alex, and Gerry, who make the day engaging and informative. The small group setting ensures plenty of attention and the ability to customize the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Salzburg Sound of Music Private Tour

This 8-hour private tour provides a comprehensive look at the film’s most famous locations along with scenic beauty and cultural sights of Salzburg and its surroundings. It’s perfect for fans of the movie, those interested in Salzburg’s history, or travelers seeking a personal, flexible day out of the city.

While the price point may seem high for some, the inclusion of admission tickets, private transport, and customizable stops justifies the cost for many. The option to include lunch adds value for those wanting a full-day adventure with regional flavors.

This tour balances film history, scenic landscapes, and personal service to deliver a memorable Salzburg experience that captures the spirit of The Sound of Music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers and includes walking stops at outdoor sites, making it family-friendly.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
As a private tour, it offers flexibility, and the driver-guide can adjust the pace and focus based on your interests.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers fuel surcharge, driver-guide, bottled water, and admission tickets for sites like Nonnberg Abbey.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing ample time at each stop plus scenic drives.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included by default but can be upgraded online when booking to enjoy a meal at a mountain restaurant.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, especially since walking is involved at several stops.